James established his foundation in 2007 in order to raise funds for, and awareness of, breast cancer. In 2002, during James' sophomore year at LSU, his mother Etta lost her battle with the disease.

“My life was forever changed by my mom’s personal experience with breast cancer,” James said. “Her strength fuels my drive to give and to do for others. Foundation 56 is my contribution to making a difference and that difference is saving lives.”

Since the inaugural meet in 2008, James' partnership with the LSU gymnastics team and the Baton Rouge community has yielded $80,000 for research, education and screenings, among other services aimed at promoting awareness and early detection of the disease.

The Etta James Memorial Meet has drawn over 7,700 fans over its two-year existence, including the second-largest crowd in LSU gymnastics history, in 2008. This year, promoters have set a goal of 8,000 attendees; if this goal is met, $10,000 will be donated to Foundation 56.

Organizers have set an overall goal of $56,000, for the event, which kicks off today with the "Tailgate for the Fight Against Breast Cancer," in the Stadium Club inside LSU's Tiger Stadium.

“I was so happy that the community helped us raise more than $80,000 the past two years, and we are excited to work with Bradie again this season, because we want to reach a new goal by raising $56,000 to support breast cancer awareness with Foundation 56," said LSU coach D.D. Breaux. "It is an honor to be part of this cause."